The index as a new concept towards an integrated framework for the electronic patient record

To overcome some classical limitations of the POMR (Problem-Oriented Medical Record), including the management of divergent opinions between health professionals, in order to construct a common patient record across multiple disciplines in hospital settings and professional networks.

Using a complex clinical case, we improved a POMR model previously used by GPs in order to translate it into a hospital setting. The enhanced model has been assessed through use in various ongoing clinical cases and through extended discussion with professional end-users (physicians, nurses, general practitioners, and social workers).

The Index concept (flexible structural link) is proposed as a major improvement in the construction of a POMR in a shared care environment.

The Index introduces interesting new perspectives. Following its implementation in the Belgian pilot site in the CORINES project, further studies remain to be carried out in order to develop a cost/benefit assessment.